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“You sense that there’s the character of an entertaining SUV wanting to break free” SeanCarson
in 2023, but for now, there’s a choice of two 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder mild-hybrid options offering 296bhp in the entry-level GT trim and 325bhp in the MASERATI may be going all-electric, mid-spec Modena edition. Both models having outlined its ‘Folgore’ strategy, but the Grecale mid-size SUV is where the develop 450Nm of torque. Above these sits a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 brand’s renaissance really starts. version of Maserati’s new Nettuno unit that To make money – and the company also powers its MC20 sports car, pumping will need to prove itself viable under the Stellantis umbrella – you need to compete out 523bhp and 620Nm of torque in the Grecale Trofeo. These powertrain options in this class. After Porsche released its also dictate standard equipment, and we’re Macan SUV (the new Macan T version is driven on P30), a direct competitor for the focusing on the more affordable GT here. Maserati says the MHEV system’s extra Grecale, in 2014, it became the German brand’s best-selling model. It highlights the torque makes it feel more like a six-cylinder. market’s appetite for this kind of car, which While this is a stretch – not least due to the droning engine note, which doesn’t project has only grown over the last eight years. ‘luxury’ – you do notice some assistance Being based on an updated version of the Giorgio platform already used by the giving strong mid-range acceleration around town and on country roads. Alfa RomeoStelvioSUV is a good place to Officially, the 0-62mph sprint takes 5.6 start, while all the powertrains offer some seconds, but at higher revs, the 1,870kg form of electrification across the board. SUV doesn’t feel that rapid, so it’s best to The Grecale Folgore will become cruise in the Grecale. Driving at a more Maserati’s first full EV when it launches sean_carson@autovia.co.uk
24 6April2022
leisurely pace, the eight-speed automatic gearbox’s shifts are slurred nicely. The car’s steering feels fast and positive enough, and while we could sense some roll in corners, it still feels agile despite its size and weight. However, our test route through the centre of Milan and around the outskirts of the city didn’t let us explore the car’s handling any further than a few left-right bends on a horribly torn surface, so we’ll have to wait until we’ve driven it in the UK for a full judgement. Being shod with winter tyres in 24-degree heat also didn’t help. The same is true of the ride quality – although our GT model had the optional air suspension (it’s standard on the two higher trims). Initial impressions suggest that this car has a soft set-up offering compliance over gently undulating roads, but riding on 20-inch wheels, the chassis occasionally struggles to deal with sharper bumps, sometimes crashing and thumping. You get a sense there’s the character of an agile, engaging SUV wanting to break
Essentials
Maserati Grecale GT Price: Engine: Power/torque: Transmission:
0-62mph: Top speed: Economy: CO2:
£60,000 (est.) 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo petrol 296bhp/450Nm Eight-speed automatic, four-wheel drive 5.6 seconds 149mph 32.5mpg 198g/km
ONSALE June
